Former Steelers analyst Myron Cope dies

PITTSBURGH, Feb. 27 (UPI) -- Hall of Fame broadcaster Myron Cope died Wednesday at the age of 79 of heart failure, respiratory problems and a bout with pneumonia.

Cope was the longest-tenured announcer with the same team in National Football League history, having been a Steelers analyst from 1970-2004.

He died at a nursing home in Mount Lebanon, Pa.

In 2005, Cope was inducted into the National Radio Hall of Fame, when he was given the Pete Rozelle Radio and Television award by the NFL Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio.

He was the man behind the Terrible Towel, the yellow towel waved by Steelers fans since the mid-70s.

"Myron was a very close friend (and) his contributions and dedication to Steelers football were incredible," said Steelers Board Chairman Dan Rooney in a statement.

"His memorable voice and unique broadcasting style became synonymous with Steelers football," added team President Art Rooney II. "They say imitation is the greatest form of flattery and no Pittsburgh broadcaster was impersonated more."